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The MCPS Form 560-50 is a vital tool for students seeking to engage in Student Service Learning (SSL) opportunities that are not listed on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC) website. This form allows students to propose volunteer activities with registered nonprofit organizations that have met specific compliance requirements set by Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). To initiate the process, students must complete the form at least two weeks before starting their service, ensuring they have parental approval and that their request is reviewed by the school-based SSL coordinator. The form captures essential details, such as the student's name, school, and the nonprofit organization they wish to work with, along with a description of the proposed service activities and the dates of service. After the SSL coordinator reviews the request, students can earn SSL hours, which are critical for meeting graduation requirements and can be documented using the MCPS Form 560-51. Adhering to the guidelines outlined in the form is crucial for students, as it ensures that their volunteer work is meaningful, safe, and recognized by the school system.

Mcps 560 50 Example

MCPS Form 560-50

August 2021

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Individual Student Service Learning (SSL) Request

CLEAR FORM

Office of Student and Family Support and Engagement

Student Leadership Office

MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Rockville, Maryland 20850

See Maryland Student Service-Learning Guidelines

http://marylandpublicschools.org/programs/pages/service-learning/index.aspx

STUDENT INSTRUCTIONS: This form is for students to pursue a Student Service Learning (SSL) opportunity that is not identified on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC) website. The names of registered nonprofit organizations that have certified compliance with MCPS Guidelines

for SSL can be found on www.montgomeryserves.org. Students should be familiar with the Seven Best Practices of Student Service Learning www. montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/ssl/pages/bestpractices.aspx. Students should complete this form by typing into this interactive form, or print legibly in blue or black ink, obtain parent/guardian approval, and submit it to their school-based SSL coordinator at least 2 weeks prior to starting the SSL activity.

STUDENT FOLLOW UP (if activity meets MCPS Guidelines for SSL after review by the MCPS SSL coordinator—see MCPS guidelines at www.mcps-ssl.org): Documentation of all service is due to the school-based SSL coordinator must be completed on MCPS Form 560-51, Student Service Learning Activity Verification Form, by the recommended or REQUIRED dates below: (please note that all SSL hours are available on StudentVUE portal after they have been verified by the school-based SSL coordinator. In order for the SSL hours to be reflected on the student’s report card, the dates below must be met.)

Service completed during the summer—Recommended by Last Friday in September

Service completed during the summer and 1st semester—Recommended by First Friday in January

Service completed during the summer, 1st semester, and 2nd semester to be recognized for the Certificate of Meritorious Service (high school seniors) or the Superintendent’s SSL Award (middle school)—REQUIRED by First Friday in April

Service completed during the summer, 1st semester, and 2nd semester—REQUIRED by First Friday in June

ALL SSL Forms for service completed any time during the current school year, including the summer before the current school year, are REQUIRED to be submitted to the school SSL coordinator no later than the first Friday in June.

STUDENT INFORMATION—To be completed by the student at least 2 weeks prior to beginning the volunteer activity.

Student Name (Last, First, Middle)_____________________________________________________________ Student ID _________ Grade _____

School -- Choose One --First Period Teacher_____________________________________________

Email______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name__________________________________________Phone: Home or Cell _____-_____-______  Other _____-_____-______

Name of registered nonprofit organization that is NOT listed as MCPS SSL (those nonprofit organizations who have certified compliance with MCPS Guidelines for SSL) on the MCVC website, and student is requesting to volunteer with:__________________________________________

Name of nonprofit supervisor:______________________________________________________________________________________________

Service activities to be done include (please provide a detailed description of the volunteer service/activity you will be doing with this organization):

Proposed dates of service:  From ____/____/_____  To  ____/____/_____. (Maximum 1 school year)

Student Signature_______________________________________________________________________________________Date ____/____/_____

GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING (SSL)

This form must be completed and submitted to the school SSL coordinator PRIOR to the student beginning a volunteer opportunity for which SSL hours are desired with an organization that is not identified on the current list of nonprofit organizations that have certified compliance with Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Guidelines for SSL. This list can be found on the MCVC website at www.montgomeryserves.org. Please allow 2 weeks for the SSL Coordinator to review this request. The following guidelines must be met by the registered nonprofit organization named on this form in order for the student noted on this form to participate in an SSL activity with this registered nonprofit organization.

Supervision

Provide ongoing supervision for MCPS students either directly or through appropriately authorized designee(s).

Expectations

Advise students of the need that will be addressed by this service, overall expectations, and safety information.

Activities for which

Door-to-door distribution or neighborhood canvasing of any kind;

MCPS students

• Service supervised by parent or relative;

MAY NOT earn SSL

• Service without sponsorship of an approved, registered nonprofit organization;

hours

• Service of a religious nature where the chief purpose is to convert others to a particular religious or spiritual view and/or which denigrates the

religious or spiritual views of others.

 

 

• Service of a religious nature where the chief purpose is to help prepare and/or participate in the performance of a religious service or

 

religious education activity.

 

• Service supervised by an individual who is younger than 18 years of age;

 

• Service performed on private property or in a private residence/home (unless specifically approved by the MCPS SSL coordinator);

 

• Service that replaces a paid staff worker of the participating agency.

 

• Service resulting in financial or other compensation.

DISTRIBUTION: Copy 1/School-based Student Service-Learning Coordinator; Copy 2/Student

MCPS Form 560-50

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GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING (SSL) (continued)

Liability

Maintain general liability insurance that covers MCPS student volunteers.

Meet the Maryland

• Meet a recognized need in the community.

Seven Best

• Achieve curricular objectives through service-learning.

Practices of

• Reflect throughout the service-learning experience.

Service-Learning

Develop student responsibility.

Establish community partnerships.

 

 

• Plan ahead for service-learning.

 

• Equip students with knowledge and skills needed for service.

Logs

Maintain a log and verify student service on MCPS Form 560-51, Student Service Learning Activity Verification according to program timelines.

Awarding of Hours

Award one (1) SSL hour for every hour of service, not exceeding eight (8) hours within a 24-hour period.

Ethical Conduct

Build positive relationships with MCPS students to support learning and adhere to standards of professional practice, including but not limited to

with Students

Section 2 of the MCPS Employee Code of Conduct, available on the MCPS website: www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org.

Sex Offenders

Shall not knowingly employ a registered sex offender at the site where an MCPS student is placed.

Compliance with

Comply with labor laws including the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. Chapter 8; and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws and

Applicable Laws

regulations. The Organization Supervisor shall be responsible for reviewing and assuring compliance with the following Board of Education policies and

 

MCPS regulations, available on the MCPS website at www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/policy/: Board Policy ACA, Nondiscrimination, Equity,

 

and Cultural Proficiency; MCPS Regulation ACA-RA, Human Relations; Board Policy ACF, Sexual Harassment; Board Policy JHC, Child Abuse and Neglect;

 

and MCPS Regulation JHC-RA, Reporting and Investigating Child Abuse and Neglect, including but not limited to those that prohibit discrimination, verbal

 

abuse, threats, physical violence, or sexual harassment directed at others.

 

(Organizations are encouraged to complete the online training on Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect, available

 

at: www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/childabuseandneglect/)

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION INFORMATION AND CERTIFICATION—To be completed by the supervisor

Organization Name__________________________________________________Federal Employer Identification # __ __ - __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Address  Street_ ________________________________________________ City_______________________ State ____ Zip Code ____________

Phone _____-_____-______  Fax _____-_____-______  E-mail_____________________________________________________________________

Secular activities (activities that have no religious or spiritual basis) to be performed by student include (please provide a detailed description of the services/activities the student is expected to perform):

My signature below certifies and vertifies that:

I am 18 years old or older.

I agree to the MCPS Guidelines for SSL noted above.

I agree to supervise the student in the above activities in a public place.

Name (Print)___________________________________________________________________ Title______________________________________

Signature_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Date ____/____/_____

PARENT/GUARDIAN APPROVAL: My signature below verifies that:

I approve and accept full responsibility for my child’s participation in this SSL opportunity with this organization.

I know this request must be submitted to, and reviewed by, the MCPS SSL coordinator prior to my child beginning the activity.

I understand that the organization with which my child will be volunteering is not listed on the MCVC website, but has submitted certification of compliance with MCPS Guidelines for SSL.

Parent/Guardian Name (Print)__________________________________________ Signature__________________________Date ____/____/_____

APPLICATION REVIEW BY SSL COORDINATOR

oOrganization has certified compliance with MCPS SSL Guidelines as detailed above 

oOrganization has not certified compliance with MCPS Guidelines for SSL

o Other (explain) ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature, Coordinator, Student Leadership and Volunteers_ __________________________________________________ Date ____/____/_____

File Breakdown

Fact Name Fact Description
Form Purpose This form allows students to request approval for Student Service Learning (SSL) opportunities not listed on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC) website.
Submission Deadline Students must submit the form to their school-based SSL coordinator at least 2 weeks prior to starting the SSL activity.
Documentation Requirement After completing the SSL activity, students must document their service using MCPS Form 560-51 by specified deadlines to receive credit.
Eligibility Criteria Students can only earn SSL hours if the service activity meets MCPS guidelines and is supervised by a registered nonprofit organization.
Insurance Requirement Registered nonprofit organizations must maintain general liability insurance that covers MCPS student volunteers.
Seven Best Practices The organization must adhere to the Maryland Seven Best Practices of Service Learning to ensure a quality experience for students.
Approval Process The SSL coordinator reviews the form to ensure compliance with MCPS guidelines before students can begin their service.
Governing Laws This form operates under the Maryland Student Service-Learning Guidelines and complies with the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Guide to Using Mcps 560 50

Completing the MCPS Form 560-50 is an important step for students seeking to engage in service learning opportunities not listed on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center website. This form requires careful attention to detail, ensuring all necessary information is provided for review by the school-based SSL coordinator. Follow these steps to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Begin by entering your Student Information at the top of the form. Fill in your full name, student ID, grade, and school. Make sure to select your first-period teacher and provide your email address.
  2. Next, input your Parent/Guardian Information. Write their name and provide both home and cell phone numbers.
  3. Identify the Nonprofit Organization with which you wish to volunteer. Clearly write the name of the organization that is not listed on the MCVC website. Ensure that this organization is registered and compliant with MCPS Guidelines for SSL.
  4. Provide the name of the Nonprofit Supervisor. This is the person overseeing your volunteer activities.
  5. Describe the Service Activities you will be performing. Be specific about the tasks and responsibilities you will undertake during your service.
  6. Fill in the Proposed Dates of Service. Indicate the start and end dates of your volunteering, ensuring it does not exceed one school year.
  7. Sign and date the form at the bottom, confirming your participation and understanding of the guidelines.
  8. Have your parent or guardian read and sign the Parent/Guardian Approval section. They must also date their signature.
  9. Once completed, submit the form to your school-based SSL coordinator at least two weeks before starting your service activity.

After submission, the SSL coordinator will review your request. If approved, you will be able to proceed with your service learning opportunity. Make sure to keep track of your hours and complete the necessary follow-up documentation as outlined in the guidelines.

Get Answers on Mcps 560 50

What is the purpose of the MCPS Form 560-50?

The MCPS Form 560-50 is designed for students who wish to pursue a Student Service Learning (SSL) opportunity that is not listed on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC) website. This form allows students to request approval for volunteering with registered nonprofit organizations that have certified compliance with MCPS Guidelines for SSL.

Who should fill out the MCPS Form 560-50?

This form must be completed by students who intend to engage in volunteer activities with organizations not identified on the MCVC website. Students are required to fill out the form at least two weeks prior to starting their service activity, ensuring they obtain the necessary parent or guardian approval.

What information is required on the form?

The form requires the following information:

  • Student’s name and ID
  • Grade and school
  • Parent/guardian contact information
  • Name of the nonprofit organization
  • Supervisor's name
  • Description of the service activities
  • Proposed dates of service

Completing this information accurately is crucial for the approval process.

How long does it take to get approval for the SSL opportunity?

Students should allow at least two weeks for the SSL coordinator to review the request. It is essential to submit the form well in advance of the intended start date for the service activity to ensure timely approval.

What are the guidelines for the nonprofit organization?

The nonprofit organization must meet several guidelines to qualify for student service learning hours. These include:

  1. Providing ongoing supervision for the student.
  2. Meeting a recognized community need.
  3. Maintaining general liability insurance covering student volunteers.
  4. Complying with all applicable labor laws and regulations.

Failure to meet these guidelines may result in denial of SSL hours for the student.

What happens after the service activity is completed?

Upon completing the service activity, students must document their hours on MCPS Form 560-51, the Student Service Learning Activity Verification Form. This documentation must be submitted to the school-based SSL coordinator by specific deadlines to ensure the hours are recorded on the student’s report card.

What are the deadlines for submitting SSL documentation?

Deadlines for submitting SSL documentation vary based on the timing of the service completed. Key deadlines include:

  • Service completed during the summer—Recommended by the Last Friday in September
  • Service completed during the summer and 1st semester—Recommended by the First Friday in January
  • Service completed for high school seniors for the Certificate of Meritorious Service—Required by the First Friday in April
  • All SSL forms must be submitted by the First Friday in June.

Adhering to these deadlines is essential for recognition of the service hours.

Are there any activities that do not qualify for SSL hours?

Yes, certain activities are not eligible for SSL hours. These include:

  • Door-to-door distribution or canvassing.
  • Service supervised by a parent or relative.
  • Service without sponsorship from an approved nonprofit organization.
  • Religious services aimed at conversion or preparation for religious activities.
  • Service performed on private property without specific approval.

Students should review these exclusions carefully to avoid any misunderstandings regarding eligibility.

How can students ensure their service aligns with the Seven Best Practices of Service Learning?

Students should familiarize themselves with the Seven Best Practices of Service Learning, which include planning ahead, reflecting on the experience, and establishing community partnerships. Engaging with these practices will enhance the quality of the service learning experience and ensure compliance with MCPS guidelines.

Common mistakes

Filling out the MCPS Form 560-50 can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can delay their Student Service Learning (SSL) opportunities. One frequent error is not allowing enough time for the review process. Students must submit the form to their school-based SSL coordinator at least two weeks before starting their volunteer activity. If this timeline is overlooked, the request may not be processed in time, causing missed opportunities for service hours.

Another common mistake involves incomplete or unclear information. Students sometimes rush through the form, leaving out critical details such as their full name, student ID, or the specific nonprofit organization with which they wish to volunteer. Providing a detailed description of the service activities is essential. Vague descriptions can lead to confusion during the review process, and may even result in denial of the SSL request.

Many applicants also fail to secure proper parental or guardian approval. The form requires a signature from a parent or guardian, affirming their awareness and acceptance of the student's participation in the SSL opportunity. Without this signature, the form is incomplete, and the request cannot be processed. It’s important to remember that parental involvement is not just a formality; it ensures that families are informed and supportive of their child's volunteer efforts.

Lastly, students often neglect to check if the nonprofit organization is registered and compliant with MCPS guidelines. If the organization is not listed on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC) website, it must have certified compliance with the guidelines. Failing to confirm this can lead to wasted time and effort, as SSL hours may not be awarded for activities with non-compliant organizations. Taking these steps seriously can help ensure a smooth application process and a rewarding volunteer experience.

Documents used along the form

When students seek to engage in service learning opportunities outside of the established nonprofit organizations, several important documents accompany the MCPS Form 560-50. Understanding these forms can streamline the process and ensure compliance with the guidelines set forth by Montgomery County Public Schools.

  • MCPS Form 560-51: Student Service Learning Activity Verification Form - This form is essential for documenting the service hours completed by the student. It must be filled out after the service activity and submitted to the school-based SSL coordinator for verification.
  • Parental Consent Form - This document requires a parent's or guardian's signature, indicating their approval for the student to participate in the service learning opportunity. It emphasizes the responsibility parents have in supporting their child's involvement.
  • Nonprofit Organization Certification - This form certifies that the nonprofit organization complies with the MCPS guidelines for service learning. It is crucial for ensuring that the organization is recognized and can provide valid service opportunities.
  • Service Learning Log - Students are encouraged to maintain a log of their service activities, detailing the tasks performed and hours worked. This log serves as a personal record and can aid in filling out the verification form accurately.

Completing and submitting these documents alongside the MCPS Form 560-50 is vital for a smooth service learning experience. Students should ensure all forms are filled out accurately and submitted in a timely manner to avoid any delays in receiving credit for their service hours.

Similar forms

  • MCPS Form 560-51: Student Service Learning Activity Verification Form - This document is used to verify the hours of service completed by the student after the SSL activity. It serves as an official record that confirms the student's participation and the fulfillment of SSL requirements.
  • MCPS Form 560-52: SSL Reflection Form - Similar to the 560-50 form, this document allows students to reflect on their service experience. It encourages students to think critically about what they learned and how they contributed to the community.
  • MCPS Form 560-53: SSL Project Proposal Form - This form is used when students want to propose a new service project. Like the 560-50, it requires detailed information about the planned activities and the organization involved, ensuring alignment with SSL guidelines.
  • MCPS Form 560-54: SSL Parent Consent Form - This document is necessary for obtaining parental permission for students to participate in SSL activities. It parallels the 560-50 in that it emphasizes the need for parent/guardian approval before engaging in service.
  • MCPS Form 560-55: SSL Supervisor Agreement Form - This form outlines the responsibilities of the nonprofit supervisor overseeing the student’s service. It is similar to the 560-50 in that it ensures proper supervision and compliance with SSL guidelines.
  • MCPS Form 560-56: SSL Community Partner Agreement Form - This document is used to formalize the partnership between the school and the nonprofit organization. Like the 560-50, it establishes expectations and responsibilities for both parties involved in the service-learning experience.
  • MCPS Form 560-57: SSL Evaluation Form - This form is used to evaluate the effectiveness of the SSL program and the student’s experience. It serves a similar purpose as the 560-50 by gathering feedback to improve future service-learning opportunities.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the MCPS Form 560-50, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do while completing this form.

  • Do complete the form at least 2 weeks prior to starting your service.
  • Do type into the interactive form or print legibly using blue or black ink.
  • Do obtain parent or guardian approval before submission.
  • Do provide a detailed description of the service activities you will be performing.
  • Do ensure that the nonprofit organization is registered and compliant with MCPS guidelines.
  • Don't submit the form without a parent or guardian's signature.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank, including your student ID and contact information.
  • Don't begin your service before receiving approval from the SSL coordinator.
  • Don't use a nonprofit organization that is not listed on the MCVC website without prior certification.
  • Don't attempt to document hours for service activities that do not meet MCPS guidelines.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the MCPS Form 560-50, which is used for Student Service Learning (SSL) requests:

  • It can be submitted at any time. The form must be submitted at least 2 weeks before starting the service activity.
  • Any nonprofit organization can be chosen. Only organizations that have certified compliance with MCPS Guidelines for SSL can be selected.
  • Parental approval is optional. Parent or guardian approval is required for the form to be valid.
  • SSL hours can be earned for any type of service. Certain types of service, such as religious activities or door-to-door canvassing, do not qualify for SSL hours.
  • SSL hours are automatically added to the report card. Hours must be verified by the school SSL coordinator before they appear on the report card.
  • All service activities are eligible for SSL hours. Activities that replace paid staff or provide compensation do not qualify.
  • There is no limit to the number of SSL hours. Students can earn a maximum of eight SSL hours in a 24-hour period.
  • The form is only for high school students. Middle school students can also use this form to request SSL opportunities.
  • SSL hours can be submitted any time during the school year. All SSL forms must be submitted by the first Friday in June for the current school year.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the MCPS Form 560-50, there are several important points to keep in mind. This form is essential for students wishing to engage in Student Service Learning (SSL) opportunities that are not listed on the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC) website. Here are key takeaways:

  • Timeliness is crucial: Students must submit the completed form to their school-based SSL coordinator at least two weeks before starting any volunteer activity.
  • Parent approval is necessary: The form requires a signature from a parent or guardian, indicating their consent and understanding of the student's participation in the SSL opportunity.
  • Documentation of service: After completing the service, students need to verify their hours using MCPS Form 560-51, which must be submitted by specific deadlines to ensure recognition on report cards.
  • Compliance with guidelines: The nonprofit organization must meet MCPS guidelines, including providing supervision and ensuring that the service activity is appropriate for SSL hours.
  • Prohibited activities: Certain types of service, such as those supervised by relatives or involving religious conversion, do not qualify for SSL hours.
  • Recordkeeping: Both students and supervisors should maintain accurate records of service activities, as this is essential for verifying hours and ensuring compliance with SSL requirements.

By following these guidelines, students can successfully navigate the process of engaging in meaningful service learning experiences while earning SSL hours. Remember, thorough preparation and understanding of the requirements will lead to a smoother experience.